The Loumaki Park

PURPOSE

The purpose of this proposal is to create a new green area in Karditsa so that it will become the new landmark destination for both residents and visitors. The connectivity of the park to the urban fabric that respects everybody, prioritizing the pedestrians, the disabled, and the bicycles is another basic element of the design, together with the use of materials and construction methods which are easily achievable and ensure the best energy efficiency, as well as the minimum need for their maintenance.

GIS ANALYSIS

Ahead of the landscape planning of the project, a GIS-based analysis through geo-information technology considered mandatory and of high importance, was executed. High resolution satellite imagery and other earth observations available through NASA’s open platform USGS-earth explorer were acquired, providing the essentials for the analytic operation that follows through geo-computational models.

These earth observations enabled us in classifying the land uses in the surrounded area and the ones under planning, the delineation among them and the position of the designed landscape of the Loumaki Park in its natural, cultural and urban context. A second approach was the application of Network Analysis (N.A.) between the park and various locations and the existing transportation network in the area, so as to estimate its accessibility and connectivity.

THE STREAM

The basic architectural gesture of the park’s design is the maintenance and highlight of the existing natural aquatic element, the stream. In times of intense rainfall it serves to store water for the irrigation of the park’s green areas, and especially areas of increased needs, such as the social vegetable garden and tree plantation area. Along the bank of the stream there will be organized areas of relaxation and activities.

THE OPEN-AIR MARKET

The creation of an ambulatory lane, with shades and other organized areas that house markets, fairs and bazaars, stimulate the local economic activity while at the same time offer a place for gathering, socializing and promotion of the local products.

THE SOCIAL GARDENS

At the south of the park there is located the area of the social gardens, with various types of vegetables and fruit trees. They are protected, cultivated and distributed to the inhabitants of the municipality and can be a means of educating children how to breed and produce food.

THE SLOPE

Northeast of the park is located an open space of 10 hectares which host activities, such as theatrical performances, folk-dance events, picnics, outdoor cinema, while in times of emergency it can host people in need. This area is surrounded by trees and a smooth slope in order to ensure both introversion and extroversion, privacy and socialization, border and view to the surrounding area.

THE PATHS

The cultural and creative activities are placed within the existing renovated building infrastructure of the former camp. These facilities are connected to each other through an elevated wooden deck-an ongoing cultural route. Both deck and roofed surfaces are made of local timber, respecting the local identity and economy.

LIGHTING DESIGN

The aim of lighting design is to meet safety needs and achieve a qualitative aesthetic effect. The lighting study takes into account the desired levels of light that create atmospheres characterized by a sense of rest and/or play. Techniques are applied to reduce light pollution and reduce energy.